> Skip to content
[]
  • Published: 30 June 2026
  • ISBN: 9781496750204
  • Imprint: Kensington
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 368
  • RRP: $39.99

Thus with a Kiss I Die




The delightfully irreverent eldest daughter of the not-so-ill-fated Romeo and Juliet returns to sleuth another day in fair Verona, in this frothy, irreverent, witty historical mystery series with a refreshingly bold premise.

“Woe, for I am the bug that meets the windshield's might,
No longer the speeding glass, smooth, clean and bright . . .”

You’re right. I, Rosie Montague of Verona, am lousy at iambic pentameter and Shakespeare speak, but you get the point: Sometimes you’re the windshield and sometimes you’re the bug. I, who for my whole life, have cruised along, unruffled, am suddenly smashed flat and speeding recklessly up the WhattheHellHappened Highway. Why? you ask . . .

I’m 20 years old and by my own design, never been wed, free as no married woman ever is. I’m beautiful, but without conceit, for Juliet, my legendary Mamma is the most gorgeous creature to ever walk the earth. Just ask Romeo, my legendary Papà. (Rumors of their deaths were premature.) I was heartwhole until I fell (literally) in love with Lysander of the House of Beautiful. But our love was not to be, for I was thwarted by Escalus, the Prince of Verona . . . who had designs on me. I’m trapped.

Then! I’m presented with a solution. Escalus’s father, Prince Escalus the Elder, appears to me. He tasks that I find his killer. Did I mention Elder is a ghost? . . . Given that I only recently dispatched Verona’s first serial killer, I’m less than pleased. Yet Elder promises to unite me with my One True Love. Meanwhile, revolution threatens, for beneath Verona society’s glittering surface lurks an enemy eager to make me a tragic heroine in my own right . . .

  • Published: 30 June 2026
  • ISBN: 9781496750204
  • Imprint: Kensington
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 368
  • RRP: $39.99

Also by Christina Dodd

See all

Praise for Thus with a Kiss I Die

Praise for Christina Dodd’s Daughter of Montague Series:

“Writing with a modern, sassy sense of wit, Dodd neatly folds the book’s fascinating Italian Renaissance setting and compelling cast of characters into a smartly executed plot that offers up a clever nod to Hamlet…Dodd’s latest is the literary equivalent of catnip for readers in search of something new and fun in historical mysteries.”Library Journal STARRED REVIEW for Thus With a Kiss I Die

“Fun, funny, charming, and absolutely delightful.  If you’re looking for a novel to sweep you away and lift your spirits, look no further.” —Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author on A Daughter of Fair Verona

“Graced with an unforgettable cast of characters that includes the delightfully indefatigable Rosie and written with a cheeky sense of wit and charm Shakespeare would be proud to claim, Dodd’s well-executed launch of her new series is absolutely brilliant.” Library Journal, Starred Review for A Daughter of Fair Verona

"A sharp, determined heroine, a clever historical mystery, sparkling wit, a unique setting, family drama and a dash of romance.” —Amanda Quick, New York Times bestselling author of The Lady Has a Past on A Daughter of Fair Verona

“Shakespeare may roll over—then he’ll sit up and applaud!!” —Mary Bly (Eloisa James), Shakespearean professor and New York Times Bestselling Author of Lizzie and Dante on A Daughter of Fair Verona

“Who has the audacity to write a book about Romeo and Juliet’s daughter? Christina Dodd, that’s who!  With its twisty plot and engaging characters, A Daughter of Fair Verona is charming, funny, and totally engaging. First I smiled, then I chuckled, then I laughed out loud. It’s fresh, audacious, and altogether captivating.  It’s such a treat to read something I haven’t read a thousand times before!” —Susan Elizabeth Phillips, # 1 New York Times bestselling author on A Daughter of Fair Verona

"A tour de force! Witty, charming, snarky and just plain fun. Shakespeare is going to wish he'd written this!" —Susan Mallery, # 1 New York Times bestselling author on A Daughter of Fair Verona

“This delightful, fast-paced mystery is a balm for the soul, with an ending that’s not only satisfying but leaves you wanting more of this heroine, this family, and Christina Dodd’s playful and clever voice.” —Megan Chance, bestselling author of A Splendid Ruin on A Daughter of Fair Verona

“As a Shakespeare scholar, actor and teacher, I welcome anything that keeps the Bard alive. A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA certainly does not disappoint. It’s extremely clever and enjoyable, and I look forward to Rosie’s next adventure.” Bookreporter on A Daughter of Fair Verona